Home Forums Lever Action Central Big Bore Levers Question about a Winchester model 71??

I have a long tang Winchester model 71 that I purchased about 6 months ago. I was lovingly fondling it this afternoon and noticed that the rear sight is not "parallel" to the barrel but rather wanters slightly to the rt at its most rearward portion. I cant believe this is the first time I noticed it. The proof marks on the receiver and barrel line up perfectly and appear to be at the very top of the rifle, but the rear sight elevator points to the rt. of both proofs. I cant leave this like it is. I have only shot the gun about 5 times and it did not hit a bucket I was aiming at 50 yds away. I guess now I know why. Anyway, I can only assume that either my rear sight is out of spec, or my dove tail was not put into the barrel at 90 degrees to its long axis. I am planning to find a replacement rear sight and try it first. If that doesnt work, I guess its off to a Winchester specialist. Have you guys seen anything like this, and if so, what are your recommendations? Also, where can I find an excellent condition rear sight assembly for a Winchester 71 long tang? thanks again.

In reading, I found mention that this sight is a Lyman 22K. Does this sound correct?

I have two Winchester 71s and two Browning 71s. If it were me, I would remove that sight, put a slot into it and mount a period correct Lyman receiver sight. Problem will be solved and you will be surprised by the increase in accuracy. I personally would not worry about it too much if you do as I suggested. But, my opinion is just that, mine. Good luck to you because you have one of the finest hunting rifles ever made. Thanks...Bill.

Any suggestions on where to find either the period correct Lyman receiver sight, or the semi buckhorn sight?

I found most of mine on eBay. I search for it and then save the search so that eBay will email me whenever such sight is posted for auction. The Williams Foolproof is another good alternative. Thanks...Bill.

Right now, the best period sight assemblies for the rear dovetail are made by Marbles. Marbles products are available through Brownells, and others.
I would be very surprised if the dovetail was off. Most likely, the sight assembly is damaged. It might be possible to return the factory sight to spec., but it will have to be removed from the dovetail for any such work.
Few long tangs are drilled and tapped for receiver sights, because the peeps were mounted on the bolt-an extra cost option. Considering the provenance of the early 71, I would not recommend modifying the receiver.

My two Winchester 71s are set up for the bolt peep but I was referring to a receiver sight. The rifle should have two 6X48 holes already drilled and tapped for a receiver sight on the left side of the action, regardless if they are set up for a bolt peep or not. I have a receiver sight on one of mine which is also set up for the bolt peep. thanks...Bill.

Sir I stand corrected. I just checked my long tang 71 and it is NOT drilled and tapped for a receiver sight. My apologies to you. Thanks...Bill.

Early (like thru late 1940's) Model 71's were not tapped for a receiver sight, later model 71's were (same applies to M94's).